Art, music, and nature

Outdoor Sightings

I beautiful and pleasant day was on hand and some outdoor related events needed to be part of this day. I elected to visit State Lands 247 near Center Hill, Pennsylvania. The object was to enjoy a walk and see some critters.

I purposely drove in to the game lands via a different route. I figured I might see my friend Frank Maus along the way. I did! Unfortunately, I couldn’t chat long since I was located along some bad curves on the road. We bid a see ya and both went separate ways.

My walk wasn’t long before I began hearing some gobbling turkeys. I decided I was hearing, at least, three birds. Later I saw a gobbler along a trail. The hike continued along until I heard another gobbler about 100 yards from me. I stepped among some brush and let out three soft yelps. Several gobbles later then silence. A few minutes on I could see the gobbler working towards me. I managed about six photos. Unfortunately, most were blurred some due to the bird’s movements and close vegetation that caused hazy images.

Turkey Vulture

Eight turkey vultures circled me for about 40 minutes this morning. I surmised they were hoping I would fall over to supply them with some fresh carrion. I fooled them by not succumbing to their desires. Several soared over me while at the house planting too. I wonder if they know something about me that should concern me.

Wild leek (Ramps)

Other critters of the day included a grouse drumming on his log. I saw one deer; some geese; a pileated woodpecker; a fox squirrel and a grey squirrel. I found some wild leek. I think I may have started this planting of leeks many years ago by planting some seeds. I would carry seeds from my personal supply at home.

White-Throated Sparrow

Another first for the season was the white throated sparrow. Quite a handsome little fellow.

Later, I stopped at a friend’s to ask permission to dig up a few white birch trees to replant at my home. We chatted a bit and an hour later I was planting trees among my landscaping.